FIFA has unveiled a blockbuster entertainment lineup for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with global music stars, actors and internet personalities set to perform across the tournament’s opening ceremonies, closing ceremony and the competition’s first-ever halftime show.
The expanded 48-team tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, began on June 11 in Mexico City and will conclude with the final on July 19 at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Three host nations, three opening ceremonies
For the first time in FIFA World Cup history, each host nation staged its own opening ceremony, celebrating its culture and music.
Mexico City’s opening ceremony featured performances by Alejandro Fernández, Belinda, Danny Ocean, J Balvin, Lila Downs, Los Ángeles Azules and Maná, alongside South African star Tyla.
Toronto’s celebration showcased Canadian talent, including Alanis Morissette, Alessia Cara, Jessie Reyez, Michael Bublé, Nora Fatehi and William Prince, with additional performances by Elyanna, Sanjoy and Vegedream.
Los Angeles hosted the United States opening ceremony, bringing together Katy Perry, Future, Anitta, LISA, Rema, and Tyla for a star-powered celebration.
FIFA introduces first-ever World Cup final halftime show
One of the tournament’s biggest innovations is the introduction of the FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show.
Taking place during the July 19 final at New York New Jersey Stadium, the historic performance will be co-headlined by Madonna, Shakira, BTS and Justin Bieber.
The show will also feature Burna Boy, conductor Gustavo Dudamel and the PS22 Chorus, with Coldplay‘s Chris Martin serving as curator in partnership with Global Citizen.
The halftime show supports the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which aims to expand access to quality education and football opportunities for children around the world.
Star-studded closing ceremony before the final
Before the final kicks off, FIFA will also stage a closing ceremony featuring Post Malone as the headline performer.
The pre-match celebration will include Robbie Williams, Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, Jennifer Hudson, who will perform the United States national anthem, internet personality IShowSpeed and actor Tom Cruise, who is scheduled to make a special appearance.
With entertainment spread across multiple events rather than a single concert, FIFA is combining football, music and global culture on an unprecedented scale, making the 2026 tournament one of the most ambitious World Cups in the competition’s history.